OsDREB1 Gene from Rice Enhances Cold Tolerance in Tobacco

The OsDREB1 gene from rice encodes a transcription factor belonging to the DREBP transcription factor subfamily. Many DREBP transcription factors regulate gene expression in response to drought, high-salt, and cold stresses by binding specifically to the dehydration-responsive element (DRE). DRE-binding proteins, such as CBF1, DREB1A, and DREB2A, have been cloned from Arabidopsis thaliana and have been proved to play an important role in stress response of Arabidopsis and several other plants. In this study, the OsDREB1 gene was transferred to tobacco plants by the Agrobacterium-mediated transfer method, and 16 transgenic plants were identified. PCR analysis demonstrates that the foreign genes have been integrated into the tobacco genome. Results of freezing stress experiments indicate that the transgenic plants have enhanced cold tolerance.